Apptivity by Mattel, prices vary
What it is: Toy characters—favourite licensed characters and toys such as Batman, Fruit Ninjas, WWE Rumblers and Hot Wheels, plus more to come—interact with a iOS app, which is included in the purchase of the toy.
Who it’s for: School-age kids; ideal for road trips or trips to granny’s.
How it works: Download the app and then place the toy on the device; a bottom sensor that pokes out (don’t worry, it won’t scratch your screen) will activate game play. It takes a little bit to get a hang of, but it’ll just mean more time your kid will spend (quietly) figuring it out.
Compatibility: iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch for select toys.
Availability: At most toy and game retailers, including Toys R Us, Future Shop and Best Buy.
